Chapter 2
Forms and Genres in Fiction
1. What is a narrative?
Ans: A narrative is a telling of some actual or
fictitious event or connected sequence of events, sometimes recounted by a
narrator to an audience (although there may be more than one of each).
2. What is a personal narrative?
Ans: A personal narrative is a prose narrative
relating personal experience.
3. What is a plot?
Ans: A plot is the sequence of events that occurs in a narrative from the beginning to the middle to the end.
Ans: The setting is the time, place, and context in
which a story take place
5. What distinguishes a novel from historiography?
Ans: Fictionality.
Ans: True.
Ans: Chariton's Callirhoe (mid 1st century).
8. Who first used the term, 'Stream of consciousness'?
Ans: This term was first used by William James in
1890.
9. What are the two terms from which modern short story is considered to be emerged?
Ans: The two terms are "sketch" and
"tale".
10. What is the traditional norm of short story regarding plot?
Ans: Short stories typically focus on a single plot
instead of multiple subplots.
11. When did modern short stories develop?
Ans: Modern short stor es developed in the early 19th
century.
12. When did the realist novel first develop?
Ans: Itoriginated with the realist art movement that
began with mid- nineteenth-century French literature (Stendhal) and Russian
literature (Alexander Pushkin).
14. Who says that the novel's 'novelty' was its 'formal realism'?
Ans: Ian Watt in The Rise of the Novel (1957).
15. Where was Novella originated?
Ans: Novella was originated in Italy during the
middle Ages.
►► Very Short Type Questions & Answers:
1. What are the exceptions that help to indicate that the as a literary genre is itself exceptional?
Ans: Novel disregards the constraints that govern
other literary and acknowledges no obligatory structure, style or subject-m
Thriving on this openness and flexibility, the novel has become the important
literary genre of the modern age,
2. How long should a novel be?
Ans: There is no established minimum length for a
novel, but it normally at least long enough to justify its publication in an
independe volume, unlike the short story.
4. Mention some sub-genres of novel.
Ans: Kunstlerroman, the spy novel, the historical
novel, the campu novel, the detective novel, the epistolary novel, the
picaresque novelan the bildungsroman.
5. What is spy novel?
Ans: A spy novel is a type of fiction that focuses on
the world of spies, covert operatives, and secret agents. It is a subgenre of
thriller fiction and is closely related to thrillers. Example-'The Spy Who Came
in from the Cold' by John le Carre.
6. Write a note on the novel of incident.
7. Mention some great writers who can be named as 'Fathers of modern story'?
Ans: In the 19th century, certain writers-those one might call the "fathers" of the modern story: Nikolay Gogol, Hawthorne, E.T.A. Hoffmann, Heinrich von Kleist, Prosper MÊrimÊe, and Poe.
8. What is a fable?
Ans: Fable is a traditional form of literature that
can be written in prose or verse. Fables often feature anthropomorphized
animals whose actions convey moral lessons. Fables end with a maxim, or a
statement that summarizes the moral.
9. What are the elements of a short story?
Ans: Elements of a short story are character,
setting, conflict, and theme.
10. Mention any three elements of a picaresque novel.
Ans: The three elements of a picaresque novel are-
11. How are the realistic characters?
Ans: Realist writers create characters who are rarely
as black and white as the more cookie-cutter protagonists and antagonists of
romanticism. In realism, characters are neither entirely righteous nor totally
corrupt-they are complex, with both positive and negative traits.
▸▸ Short Type Questions & Answers:
1. Mention some characteristics of a novel.
Ans: Some characteristics of a novel are mentioned
below-
(i) Writing in prose: One of the main features of the novel isits writing in prose, that is to say that it is not written in poetic format. This implies that it lacks metric rhythm, repetition or periodicity
(ii) Length: The length of novels is one of the most debated features within the literary field. Extension depends on gender and history. At times, when the plot and character development is brief, a novel can be very short. However, when the development of situations warrants it, it can reach a large extent. The length depends on the sensitivity the author has to determine how necessary it is to develop a theme or a character. There is no standard measure and may vary according to the intentionality of each situation
(iii) Innovation: There is no rule that determines this characteristic, however, throughout the history of the humanity, the novels have been representatives of the innovation. That is to say, through them, the transit has been made to new ways of doing literature.
(iv) Fictitious but plausible content: Another fundamental feature of the novel is the themes it addresses. It is considered that these are pieces of fiction; however, the narrative is usually realistic and poses the facts plausibly and coherently.
(v) Development of the plot: The plot refers to the events that unfold throughout history. This is determined by a conflict that raises the author and unfolds through different situations that live the characters of the work. The extension of the novel allows the plot to be developed widely, giving space to complex situations. In many cases even the central plot is surrounded by other small stories that are interconnected with the main facts.
(vi) Character development: It is possible that there is a broad development of the characters. In some cases this is reflected in the existence of a large number of characters with different incidents within the plot. The depth of character development, however, is always different and depends on the characteristics of each novel.
(vii) Diversity of sub-genera: Over time, the novel has been transformed and evolved into new themes, approaches and aesthetic proposals. For this reason, at present there is a great variety of sub-genera to the point that in some cases it is difficult to classify a novel in only one of them. Each sub-genre employs different narrative techniques, different styles and tones to develop themes with very different approaches.
2. What is postmodern novel? Briefly elaborate.
Ans: For the postmodernist, the well-worn genre of
the novel is insufficient and no longer capable of conveying the imagination of
the writer or the magnitude of historical events.
Several critics agree that postmodern fiction is a product
of the post- World War II period. At that time, many of the major modernist
writers, such as Joseph Conrad, Marcel Proust, Franz Kafka, James Joyce, and
Virginia Woolf, had died. Other writers, including William Faulkner and Ernest
Hemingway, had ceased publishing innovative and experimental work. Critics also
tend to concur that postmodernism is an extension of rather than a decisive
break or deviation from modernism, the defining literary movement of the
twentieth century.
Like the modern novel, the postmodern novel is subversive; that is, it counters traditional notions of plot, narrative, chronology, and character development. Postmodern novels are often described as self-reflexive- thatis, they center on the nature of fiction itself and are written as though fiction is independent of society, reality, and any realm outside itself. The origins of the "autonomous" postmodern novel can be found in the essays of early modernist writers such as Oscar Wilde, who argued against Aristotle's premise that art imitates life. On the contrary, Wilde contended that life imitates art.
3. Mention some characteristic features of short stories.
Ans: Here are some characteristics of short stories:
(i) Length: Short stories are usually between 1,600-20,000 words.
(ii) Narration: Short stories are usually written in prose.
(iii) Characters: Short stories don't have many characters.
(iv) Setting: Short stories usually take place in one location, like a house, room, city, or street.
4. What are the different types of short stories?
Ans: Here are some popular types of short stories, literary styles and authors associated with them:
(a) Fable: A tale that provides a moral lesson, often using animals, mythical creatures, forces of nature, or inanimate objects to come to life (Brothers Grimm, Aesop).
(b) Flash fiction: A story between 5 to 2,000 words
that lacks traditional plot structure or character development and is often
characterized by a surprise or twist of fate (Lydia Davis).
(c) Mini saga: A type of micro-fiction using exactly
50 words to tell a story.
(d) Vignette: A descriptive scene or defining moment that does not contain a complete plot or narrative but reveals an important detail about a character or idea (Sandra Cisneros).
(e) Modernism: Experimenting with narrative form, style, and chronology (inner monologues, stream of consciousness) to capture the experience of an individual (James Joyce, Virginia Woolf).
(f) Postmodernism: Using fragmentation, paradox, or unreliable narrators to explore the relationship between the author, reader, and text (Donald Barthelme, Jorge Luis Borges).
(g) Magical realism: Combining realistic narrative or setting with elements of surrealism, dreams, fantasy (Gabriel Garcia or Marquez).
(h) Minimalism: Writingcharacterized by brevity, straightforward languag, and a lack of plot resolutions (Raymond Carver, Amy Hempel).
5. Write a note on the significance of picaresque novel.
Ans: The picaresque fiction is significant for
several characterisme features. These are mentioned below
(a) A reflection of society: Picaresque fiction is like a mirror held up to society. It portrays the world through the eyes of an outsider a picaro and highlights the social, economic, and political realities of the time.
(b) A unique narrative style: The episodic nature of picaresque fiction sets it apart from other genres. This unique narrative style allows the author to explore different themes and settings in each chapter, keeping readers engaged from start to finish.
(c) A celebration of the underdog: Picaresque fiction is filled with underdog heroes who defy societal norms and expectations. Their struggles and triumphs offer a fresh perspective on life and remind us that sometimes, winning is not everything
(d) A source of inspiration: Many modern authors have been inspired by the picaresque tradition, from Mark Twain to J.K. Rowling In short, picaresque fiction matters because it offers a unique blend of entertainment, social commentary, and narrative innovation.
6. Briefly describe the history of the origin of the term, 'Picaresque'.
Ans: The word picaro first starts to appear in Spain with the current meaning in 1545, though at the time it had no association with literature. The word picaro does not appear in Lazarillo de Tormes (1554). the novella credited by modern scholars with founding the genre. The expression picaresque novel was coined in 1810. Whether it has any validity at all as a generic label in the Spanish sixteenth and seventeenth centuries-Cervantes certainly used "picaresque" with a different meaning than it has today-has been called into question. There is unresolved debate within Hispanic studies about what the term means, or meant, and which works were, or should be, so called. The only work clearly called "picaresque" by its contemporaries was Mateo AlemÃĄn's GuzmÃĄn de Alfarache (1599), which to them was the Libro del picaro (The Book of the Picaro).
7. What is the History of Literary Realism in the United Kingdom?
Ans: Literary realism existed, in some form, in
England before the genre was fully defined. Some critics credit the first
British novelists, like Daniel Defoe and Samuel Richardson, as realists,
because they wrote about issues related to the middle class.
Once realism took shape, George Eliot published Middlemarch: A Study of Provincial Life in 1871, which is considered the most famous work of literary realism to come from the United Kingdom. The genre developed in parallel with the U.K.'s new middle class and authors took the opportunity to echo their interests and concerns. Other well-known British realism authors include George Gissing, Arnold Bennett, and George Moore.
8. Mention different types of novellas with examples.
Ans: Similar to novels and short stories, novellas
may be written in a variety of styles, on a range of subject matter or themes.
These are just a few prominent examples of novellas-
(i) Gothic literature: The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Robert Louis Stevenson (1886)
(ii) Science fiction: The Time Machine, H.G Wells (1895) (iii) Political satire/allegory: Animal Farm, George Orwell (1945)
(iv) Mystery: We Have Always Lived in the Castle, Shirley Jackson (1962)
(v) Historical fiction: One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich, Alexander Solzhenitsyn (1962)
(vi) Children's literature: The Little Prince, Antoine de Saint.
(vii) Autobiographical: The Lover, Marguerite Duras (1984).
► Long Type Questions & Answers:
1. Discuss the technique of writing Novel.
Ans: A novel is a narrative work of fiction that typically explores characters, plot, and themes within a broader storytelling structure. charms for in-depth exploration of emotions, relationships, and diverse perspectives, making it a powerful medium for conveying complex narratives.
The technique of a novel encompasses various literary devices and strategies employed by authors to craft a compelling and cohesive narrative. Some key techniques include:
(a) Point of View: Authors choose a narrative perspective (first. person, third-person limited, omniscient) to shape the reader's experience and influence the depth of character insight.
(b) Characterization: Developing well-rounded and relatable characters through descriptions, actions, dialogue, and inner thoughts is crucial for reader engagement.
(c) Plot Structure: Organizing events into a coherent structure, often involving exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution, helps create a satisfying and meaningful story.
(d) Dialogue: Natural and effective dialogue enhances character development, advances the plot, and adds authenticity to the narrative.
(e) Setting: Describing the physical and cultural environment in which the story unfolds enriches the reader's sensory experience and provides context.
(f) Symbolism: Using symbols and metaphorical elements adds depth and layers of meaning to the narrative, allowing for exploration of themes and motifs.
(g) Foreshadowing: Hinting at future events or outcomes creates suspense and anticipation, encouraging readers to stay engaged with the story.
(h) Tone and Mood: Establishing a consistent tone and mood contributes to the overall atmosphere of the novel, influencing how readers interpret and feel about the narrative.
(i) Theme: Development: Exploring universal themes or ideas adds depth and resonance to the novel, providing readers with insights and reflections on the human experience.
(j) Narrative Voice: The author's distinctive style and voice contribute to the novel's unique identity, shaping the overall reading experience.
Successful novels often employ a combination of these techniques, skillfully balancing elements to create a captivating and immersive narrative.
2. Write a note on modern novel.
Ans: The modern novel, emerging in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflects a departure from traditional narrative structures and embraces experimentation in form, style, and themes. Key characteristics of the modern novel include:
(a) Stream of Consciousness: Modern novels often employ stream-of-consciousness narrative techniques, providing readers with a direct window into a character's inner thoughts and experiences. This technique, pioneered by authors like James Joyce and Virginia Woolf, enhances psychological depth.
(b) Fragmentation and Nonlinear Narratives: Modern novels frequently abandon linear storytelling, opting for fragmented structures. Authors like William Faulkner and Marcel Proust challenged chronological order, presenting narratives through fragmented perspectives and nonlinear timelines.
(c) Existential Themes: Many modern novels grapple with existential questions, exploring the complexities of human existence, identity, and the search for meaning. Albert Camus's "The Stranger" and Jean-Paul Sartre's "Nausea" exemplify this philosophical exploration.
(d) Cultural and Social Critique: Modern novelists often engage with and critique the cultural and social landscapes of their times. George Orwell's "1984" and Aldous Huxley's "Brave New
